Sinn Féin - On Your Side

Sinn Féin Spokesperson for Children and Youth Affairs Denise
Mitchell TD has said today’s report by the Ombudsman for Children into the
supports for a child with a disability who is in the care of the State
highlights the lack of coordination between the HSE and Tusla.

Deputy Mitchell said:

“This Report into the case of Molly raises serious questions
around the level of coordination between Tusla and the HSE when it comes to
providing vital supports for children with disabilities who are in the care of
the State. The State has a duty to do what is in the best interests of a child,
and where that child has a disability the care provided should be responsive to
their needs and the supports required must be readily available. Sadly, this
simply was not the case here.

“It is clear from the Report that the social workers
themselves did not have any training or experience of children with
intellectual disabilities and felt ill-equipped to support Molly and her foster
family. That is simply not good enough.

“This Report also highlights the shameful inadequacy of
respite care services across the State and how this Government has time and
time again failed children with disabilities and their carers. This cannot be
allowed to continue.

“I hope Tusla, the HSE and the various
Government Ministers will take on board the recommendations of this report and
ensure that vulnerable children in care - and their foster carers - are
provided with all the supports they need to reach their full physical,
cognitive and educational potential.”